Introduction
Vauxhall has really found its feet again in the last couple of years. Driven by the success of the latest Mokka and Astra, which have both displayed a new design language for the firm, it’s now set about revamping its existing models.
First came an updated version of Vauxhall’s smaller Crossland, and now a series of changes have been made to the larger Grandland. This is the firm’s most spacious crossover which first arrived in 2017, using similar underpinnings to the Peugeot 3008 and Citroen C5 Aircross.
It’s proven a popular choice since, especially with families, and now Vauxhall has made a number of changes. Key differences include the addition of the firm’s latest design language, specifically the ‘Vizor’ front end, which wraps the headlights and Vauxhall emblem behind a gloss black panel. Inside, the Grandland now boasts a ‘Pure Panel’ comprising two large digital displays merged together to look like a single piece of glass.
On paper, these changes would seem to have made a big difference, but do they stack up? Let’s get behind the wheel and see.
Performance
Vauxhall continues to offer a broad range of powertrains, with petrol, diesel and hybrid models available.
Kicking off the line-up is a turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol unit, delivering 128bhp, and available with a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. With this engine under the bonnet, the Grandland can get to 60mph in a little over 10 seconds, with Vauxhall claiming up to 46.3mpg.
High-mileage drivers might prefer a 128bhp 1.5-litre diesel model, paired only with an automatic transmission. It’s not the quickest – it takes 12.3 seconds to accelerate to 60mph – but is more efficient, returning a claimed 52.3mpg.
Vauxhall also offers a choice of two plug-in hybrids. Both use a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine as their base, with a 222bhp version using a single electric motor, and a 296bhp adding a second motor, enabling it to be all-wheel-drive, too. These are able to accelerate from 0-60mph in 8.9 and 6.1 seconds respectively. In terms of efficiency, Vauxhall claims a 41-mile electric range from them, allowing for up to a claimed 235.4mpg and 28g/km CO2 emissions. You will need to charge regularly to see those figures, however.
Ride and handling
We’ve driven both the regular petrol and hybrid versions of the Grandland and the common theme is that both are a very safe and pleasant way to travel around. Vauxhall has made various changes over the previous model, and the result is welcome – the steering is well-weighted for a car of this type, while the controls are easy to accustom yourself to.
The regular petrol model’s performance is slightly lukewarm, but the hybrid model adds some welcome extra pace if that’s important – especially the four-wheel-drive GSe model that is impressively quick with its combination of electric and petrol propulsion.
Interior
Undoubtedly the biggest improvement as part of this latest Grandland is the interior. The previous car looked a bit dated, but the addition of the Pure Panel screens has really helped to lift the cabin. The quality in places is still a bit low-rent, though, and it doesn’t feel as well-finished as rivals like the Peugeot 3008 and Volkswagen Tiguan.
One area where it can’t be faulted, however, is its interior space. The boot measures an impressive 514 litres, increasing to 1,652 litres once the rear seats are folded. The hybrid models are slightly less practical, however. There is lots of room in the back too, even for adults to sit comfortably.
Equipment
There are four versions of the Grandland available – Design, GS, Ultimate and the top-spec GSe. Even the entry-level model is very well equipped, though, with standard features including LED headlights with high beam assist, dual-zone climate control, and two seven-inch digital displays with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The GS model is our pick of the line-up, as it brings a larger 10-inch touchscreen and 12-inch digital instrument cluster, along with more stylish 18-inch alloy wheels and a gloss black roof.
The high-spec Ultimate model brings advanced pixel LED headlights, a 360-degree parking camera, Alcantara seating and wireless smartphone charging. With the GSe, you’re primarily paying for its more powerful hybrid powertrain, though it also features a sportier chassis setup.
Cost
The Grandland is right on the money regarding pricing, with the entry-level model available from £27,645, though even the more preferable GS version sneaks in at under £30,000.
The plug-in hybrid is quite a steep increase, with the 222bhp model starting from £38,405, but the flagship GSe tops out at a significant £43,700.
Verdict
Vauxhall has drastically improved this latest Grandland, with a much smarter design and high-tech interior that really lift this model.
It might not lead the way when it comes to dynamics and quality, but the wide powertrain choice and generous equipment levels give you plenty of reasons to consider the Grandland.
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